A contested divorce is one in which only one partner is seeking to dissolve the marriage and the other partner wishes to remain married. It can also refer to circumstances in which the couple simply cannot agree about the specifics of a settlement agreement. In most states, a no-fault divorce will be granted even if one party does not consent. Even in cases that are contested, the end result is almost always a divorce. Many couples are able to reach a settlement without hiring attorneys. However, in cases that are contested, retaining a legal advisor is the smartest option. Court costs and legal fees can be very expensive, but representing oneself in a divorce trial is not advisable. A contested divorce that goes to trial may still not yield satisfactory results. In this situation, the decision of a lower court can be appealed to a higher court. However, if the appeal fails the judgment is final.